Computer System Recommendations for Students
As each semester begins at Northern Arizona University, new technologies are implemented on and off-campus to enrich your learning experience. Students are strongly encouraged to ensure that the computer they bring on campus meets the requirements for support established by NAU Information Technology Services. Because buying a computer is an important academic purchase, students are strongly advised to carefully choose a computer that will meet their computing needs during their four years at NAU. Considering that a computer's performance degrades over time, it would be wise to purchase a computer with more than the minimum requirements.
Computer Specifications
PC: System Requirements to Run Windows 7 (the latest Microsoft Operating System)
- 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
- 1 gigabyte (GB) RAM (32-bit) or 2 GB RAM (64-bit)
- 50 GB available hard disk space
- DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM 1.0 or higher driver
- Source
Mac: System Requirements to Run Mac OS X 10.6; "Snow Leopard" (the latest Mac Operating System)
- Mac computer with an Intel processor
- 1 GB of memory
- 50 GB of available disk space
- DVD drive for installation
- Source
We also recommend that you purchase a computer with a wireless network adapter built in. A general rule of thumb is that any computer purchased within the last 3 years will have a great experience on our network and on-campus. A computer older than 3 years might have a reduced experience.
Operating Systems that are supported on ResNet
- Windows XP (with Service Pack 3)
- Windows Vista (any version, with Service Pack 2)
- Windows 7 (any version, with Service Pack 1)
- Mac OS 10.2 or higher
In addition to a supported operating system, other steps to a secure computer include:
- A full (not trial) version of an anti-virus program, with automatic updates. You may download Sophos Anti-Virus at www.nau.edu/its/software. A fully updated anti-virus program is required to get internet access on campus.
- An up-to-date anti-spyware program such as Malwarebytes, Spybot S&D, or Microsoft's Windows Defender to ensure the safety of your computer and personal information.
- A strong password for each administrator account on each machine.
- An HTML5 enable web browser (Internet Explorer 8+, Safari 5+, Firefox 4+, or Chrome)
For off-campus students, internet access speed is another consideration. Modems for dial-up access are no longer the best option. While Blackboard Learn can be accessed over a modem, there are a number of NAU courses and resources that will not function properly or successfully. A Broadband (high-speed) connection is recommended in order to achieve the best experience possible.
Other resources available to optimize your computing experience include:
- Discounts on Dell, Gateway, and Apple computers through the NAU Bookstore
- Discounts on Windows and Macintosh operating system upgrades through the Bookstore
- Discounts on Microsoft Office Professional Suite for Windows and Macintosh through the Bookstore
- Free anti-virus software at no additional charge
- Statewide computer labs, and 24/7 on-campus computer labs
- 24/7 Student Technology Center telephone support. 928-523-9294 or 1-888-520-7215
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Related Services
ResNet, or Residential Network, provides a high-speed Ethernet and wireless connections to every student living in the residence halls of Northern Arizona University.
The Student Technology Center (STC) provides 24/7 technical phone support as well as in-person support. Call 928-523-9294 for assistance or statewide toll-free at 888-520-7215.
The Student Technology Center (STC) provides 24/7 technical phone support as well as in-person support. Call 928-523-9294 for assistance or statewide toll-free at 888-520-7215.
Training & Documentation
How to connect to the ResNet network in your residence hall room.
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